This gene encodes subunit 3 of the splicing factor 3b protein complex. Splicing factor 3b together with splicing factor 3a and a 12S RNA unit forms the U2 small nuclear ribonucleoproteins complex (U2 snRNP). The splicing factor 3b/3a complex binds pre-mRNA upstream of the intron's branch site in a sequence independent manner and may anchor the U2 snRNP to the pre-mRNA. Splicing factor 3b is also a component of the minor U12-type spliceosome. Subunit 3 has also been identified as a component of the STAGA (SPT3-TAF(II)31-GCN5L acetylase) transcription coactivator-HAT (histone acetyltransferase) complex and the TFTC (TATA-binding-protein-free TAF(II)-containing complex). These complexes may function in chromatin modification transcription splicing and DNA repair. [provided by RefSeq Jul 2008]